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WolfSpider

Lycosidae

Photography by: Anna M. - Traverse City, Michigan

Photography by: K.J.Ester - Madison Heights, Michigan

See more pictures below.

There are many species of the Wolf Spider, many of which look very similar. Twice in the past I asked an entomologist (both times were different entomologists) to help me identify the different Wolf Spiders that have been sent to me. Both times they turned me down for the same reason. It is simply too hard to identify the different species of Wolf Spiders without putting the spider under the microscope to look at the genitalia. So I learned not to try to do this myself. The information listed is for the Wolf Spider in general and not for any particular species.

Description – The descriptions change from one wolf spider to another, but there are some more common characteristics. The general shape is of a thick set spider with thicker legs meant for walking, rather than hanging in webs. The best way for the common person to recognize a Wolf Spider is by the eyes. Wolf Spiders have a horizontal row of four smaller eyes. Above those four eyes, is a pair of larger eyes, and above those, is another pair of smaller eyes.

Size - The Wolf Spider can come in all sizes. There are some you will see running around in grass that are only about 3/8” (10mm), while some species of the Wolf Spider reaches up to around 3” (76mm). (These sizes include the legs)

Web – The Wolf Spider only spins web to make a nest or to cover its eggs. They are a hunting spider and will wander in search of its prey.

Bites – The bite from a Wolf Spider can cause some pain, redness and swelling. In some cases, swollen Lymph glands may occur and the skin area at the bite can turn black. Swelling and Pain can last up to 10 days. On a very rare occasion, a bite can cause necrotic lesions similar to the Recluse or Hobo Spider (Neither which is in Michigan) but nowhere as severe.

Side Fact – The Wolf Spider has a reputation as a dangerous spider that is not deserved and is listed as a low risk danger. They are also one of the more common spiders in Michigan. In the fall time, males will wander in search for a mate and sometimes be drawn to the warmer temperatures of our homes. Because of this, it is not uncommon to find them running across our floors during the Fall season.